Denys 'Redis' Prokopenko Elevated to Brigadier General by President Zelenskyy.

Promotion to Brigadier General

According to Novyny.live: On February 25, 2026, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy awarded the rank of brigadier general to Denys Prokopenko, commander of the First Corps of the National Guard of Ukraine 'Azov', who is widely known by his call sign 'Redis'. The promotion, formalized by Decree No. 195/2026, recognizes Prokopenko's significant contributions to the nation's defense capabilities. This advancement underscores the high value placed on experienced combat leadership in Ukraine's ongoing war for survival.

Denys Prokopenko, commander of the 'Azov' unit within the National Guard, gained prominence for his role in the defense of Mariupol following Russia's full-scale invasion that began on February 24, 2022. For his demonstrated courage and heroism in combat, he was awarded the title of Hero of Ukraine in March 2022. However, in May 2022, Prokopenko was captured and became a prisoner of war. He was freed on September 21, 2022, as part of a prisoner exchange and finally returned to Ukraine on July 8, 2023.

Service in the National Guard

In 2025, the 'Azov' unit was expanded to form the 1st 'Azov' Corps, with Denys Prokopenko appointed as its commander. This was part of a broader reorganization in April 2025 that saw the creation of two corps within the National Guard of Ukraine. His distinguished service was further honored in August 2025 when he was awarded the Order of Bohdan Khmelnytskyi, II Class. The Azov unit, now a corps, has been a key component of Ukraine's defense structure since the war's outset in 2014.

This promotion reflects recognition not only of Denys Prokopenko's personal contribution to Ukraine's defense but also the critical importance of his role in the history of the ongoing war.

The appointment of Denys Prokopenko to brigadier general highlights the significance of National Guard leadership amid the protracted conflict and the need for professional military command.

This move can also be interpreted as a signal of support and acknowledgment for the merits of military personnel fighting for Ukraine's independence and territorial integrity, particularly in the context of pivotal events like the defense of Mariupol. Recognizing Prokopenko's service is likely to bolster the morale of both service members and society at large during these challenging times.